The Pool Suite

A Compact, Romantic Perch in Provence

A tiny house that’s big on style, this relaxing haven is set in the heart of Arles. This is the best of Provence—thick, blonde stone walls, a traditional arched entryway, and poetically creeping vines and greenery draped along its sturdy barriers. Created as a serene bedroom suite set high above a patio pool garden with an outdoor kitchen and lounge area, it’s a compact, romantic perch in the magical South of France.

Historic stones that once served as a charming passageway have been transformed into a decidedly modern concept—a tiny house, created to be a peaceful poolside retreat for two. Behind a wide arching entryway dating from Roman times hides a heated saltwater swimming pool surrounded by tropical plants and shielded from the street by sturdy, stone walls. Above it, a bedroom and bath suite is visible behind a wall of loft-like, multi-paned windows. Adjacent to the pool, a compact patio kitchen offers a small food prep area perfect for mixing cocktails and preparing Provençal aperitifs outdoors.

A romantic retreat for two, the suite’s saltwater pool is warmed to over 80 degrees F/18 degrees C, and the warm waters greet you just as soon as you enter the property. An outdoor shower featuring locally crafted organic products sits next to the pool, obscured by abundant patio plants and a modern, open stairway. The patio kitchen is thoughtfully outfitted with a sink, electric grill, kitchenware and a fridge, and cabana sling chairs and chaise lounges with side tables are set up for enjoying casual poolside meals.

A flight of floating steel stairs leads to the fully enclosed, upper-level bedroom suite, furnished simply and beautifully with a queen-sized bed made up with Basque linens. A whitewashed, wood-beamed ceiling angles overhead, cool pendant lamps dangle low for bedtime reading, and a sliding barn door cleverly hides closet space. The bathroom features a modern shower and sink combo, and both the upstairs and patio are decorated in a spare, chic style, sleekly designed and minimal, yet created to be casual and comfortable.

AROUND

This vacation home for rent in France is tucked away in an ancient stone passageway hidden behind an arched Roman door in Arles’ lively neighborhood of La Roquette, a historic downtown area that was built by Roman sailors and fishermen. The neighborhood offers easy access to the Rhone River as well as Arles’ popular contemporary arts and antiques scenes at the city center. Arles’ most famous resident artist was Vincent Van Gogh, and the city is home to his namesake Foundation showcasing contemporary art inspired by the master. 

The city was also once a provincial capital of ancient Rome, so it is dotted with ancient ruins and impressive restorations, including its famous amphitheater, today home to festivals, theatrical performances, and bullfights. Regarded as a lively, history steeped town, Arles celebrates a number of festivals throughout the year, among them a running of the bulls. 

Outside of the city, sunflower and lavender fields and the craggy, limestone-and-shrub landscapes of Provence, with picturesque villages and lively markets, invite exploration. The Camargue National Park is situated nearby, between the Rhone and the Mediterranean Sea. Home to wild horses, colorful flamingos, and a wealth of bird life, the Camargue is also home to the unique town of Saintes Maries la Mer, a historic gathering place for the Roma people of the Mediterranean. And of course, the kaleidoscope blue waters of the Mediterranean and its colorful seaside villages and deep bays is a quick drive away.

LOCATION

Arles, Provence-Alpes-Côtes d’Azur, France. Nearest airports: Nimes, Marseilles, and Montpellier.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring through fall.